Mesenchymal and stem-like cell properties targeted in suppression of chronically-induced breast cell carcinogenesis

Stem-like cells and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) program are postulated to play important roles in various stages of cancer development, but their roles in breast cell carcinogenesis and intervention remain to be clarified. We investigated stem-like cell- and EMT-associated properties and markers in breast epithelial cells chronically exposed to low-dose 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone and benzo[a]pyrene in the presence and absence of the preventive agents green tea catechins and grape seed extract. Our results indicate that stem-like cell- and EMT-associated properties and markers should be seriously considered as new cancer-associated indicators for detecting breast cell carcinogenesis and as endpoints for intervention of carcinogenesis.

► Chronic exposure to low-dose carcinogens induces breast cell carcinogenesis.
► Stem-like cell populations are increased in breast cell carcinogenesis.
► EMT-associated properties are induced in breast cell carcinogenesis.
► Green tea catechins suppress stem-like cells and EMT-associated properties.
► Grape seed extract suppress stem-like cells and EMT-associated properties.